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September is National Rice Month. Rice is the most widely consumed food staple in the world, but it also fits into the global natural-beauty movement in the form of rice bran oil. Rice bran is a byproduct of the milling process. The bran layer is polished off the grain, resulting in white rice. The rice bran contains an oil that has beneficial health and beauty applications.

As a culinary ingredient, it’s well-documented that rice bran oil is an incredible source of the vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential fatty acids and antioxidants that help fight disease and promote good health. Rice bran oil is a source of vitamin E and other micro-nutrients that can help fight free radicals and combat the effects of aging. It’s no wonder the healthy oil that comes from rice bran has become so popular among chefs and home cooks.

Rice bran oil can also be used to soften your skin and condition your hair. You can simply massage it into your skin for added protection against the elements. For shiny tresses, you can rub a couple drops in your hand and run it through your wet hair.

Teresa Scarborough of California Rice Oil Company, based in Fairfield, said she uses rice bran oil to create soaps and lotions, which she enjoys giving to her friends and family during the holidays.

So the next time you’re looking for a natural beauty product, pick up a bottle of rice bran oil. A little goes a long way, so it’s an affordable choice as well as a beautiful way to celebrate National Rice Month!